23 - Utilizing a Social Media Platform Targeting Youths for COVID-19 Prevention: Benefits of TikTok

Abstract:

Background: Dentistry has been challenged by Covid -19 and social media platforms may be helpful. Released in 2016, TikTok has grown into the 6th largest social network in the world with 100 million users in the US alone. It's user base consists of Gen-Z, with 41% between the ages of 16-24. In a recent study, (10.1016/j.jadohealth.2021.05.010) the authors suggest that although cases of COVID-19 may be less severe in those under 18 years of age, the World Health Organization (WHO) precautions such as social distancing can be helpful. For young adults in particular, the WHO suggests staying connected through social media and making every attempt to stay positive. TikTok has the potential, not only to convey this type of important health information, but to address these aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic as well.

Objective: was to address the receptivity of TikTok videos as a mitigating strategy for Covid-19 transmission utilizing WHO suggestions.

Methods: included Utilizing the author’s social media platform experience(12M+ views), two videos were written, directed and produced airing in March 21, 2020. Each video was less than a minute, lighthearted, positive and included WHO mitigation behaviors i.e. social distancing, hand washing and proper sneezing protocol. Results have been positive with over 68,400 views total; 11,200 likes with extremely positive comments. As further evidence of their value, the videos were added to the Florida Chapter of the Society of Public Health Education’s Communications Covid-19 Resources.

Conclusions: TikTok videos were well received and provided helpful information for Covid-19 mitigation.

Source of Funding: None